Water, hygiene and infection prevention solutions and services provider Ecolab, announced today it will source renewable energy for 100% of its European operations through a new virtual power purchase agreement (VPPA) with renewable energy investment and asset management firm Low Carbon.

Ecolab’s European operations include 15 major offices, 26 manufacturing facilities and seven RD&E centers.

Emilio Tenuta, Ecolab Chief Sustainability Officer, said:

“At a time of increased scrutiny for energy use and net zero commitments, we are proud to be investing in renewable options that are good for both Ecolab’s business and our planet. Many of Ecolab’s more than 47,000 associates globally are supporting our customers on their net zero transition, and this agreement provides a tangible example of how to move from commitment to action.”

The new announcement follows an investment by Ecolab in 2018 enabling the company to source enough renewable energy to cover its North American operations. Ecolab has now sourced sufficient renewable energy to cover 80% of its global energy needs, closing in on its goal to reach 100% by 2030.

The new agreement will help the construction and operation of The Mörknässkogen farm, a five-turbine wind farm on the west coast of Finland, currently being developed by Low Carbon.

The wind farm, which is expected to begin operations by the end of 2023, will produce approximately 100 GWh of renewable energy each year, and reducing potential greenhouse gas emissions by 20,900 tons. 

John Graves, CIO of the Low Carbon Renewables Fund, said:

“We are pleased to partner with a global sustainability leader in Ecolab to bring additional renewable energy infrastructure to Finland’s already sought-after renewable power mix. The Mörknässkogen wind project shows how forward-thinking companies can deliver real impact when we work together advance a sustainable future.”